Friends and neighbors in Middleburg, and tens of thousands who were touched by his voice, his life, his work and his presence throughout Loudoun County, mourn the passing of Paul Draisey, 55, who died unexpectedly on April 16 at Inova Fairfax Hospital.

Many first heard his voice on their AM radios, beginning in 1971, when, as a freshman at Loudoun Valley High, he began his career at WAGE. He read his first weathercast there when he was only 10.

His signature program, "The Drive Home," made him a household name in Loudoun, and as the county grew and traffic stalled, a true companion on many a long ride home. News, sports, weather, HS play by play: the VOICE was always Paul's

His departure from WAGE, some 36 years later, truly marked the end of an era for both local radio and the spirit of the County. He was forced out of the station after a takeover and format shift in 2007. The station closed two years later.

Draisey's years of service with the Middleburg Volunteer Fire Department and his devotion to USO were legendary. After leaving WAGE he became an extraordinary public relations consultant and the kind of insurance agent one often sees in TV commercials, but all too rarely encounters in real life.

Middleburg Mayor Betsy Davis described him as "a true friend" not only to her, but to the entire town and community.

"He will be missed so very much by all of us. Our love and prayers go out," she continued, "to Donna and all of her family."

Davis spoke for the entire Town and no doubt for the entire County he loved and served.